The public has been conditioned to think that conflict-of-interest issues only apply to politicians and other government officials held to high ethical standards. But the truth is that these issues are relevant to every workplace and affect all employers and employees.

Whenever an employee finds themselves in a situation where their interests are at odds with their allegiance to their employer, it is considered a conflict of interest. While most employees will thankfully never engage in bribery or other forms of illegal behaviour for their own personal gain, they may one day come to an ethical crossroads and not know whether to turn left or right because they don’t understand the principles of conflict of interest.

The answer to the question of “How much are you worth?” can often elude both employees and employers. Ask these two groups the same question and you’ll probably receive two very different answers.

The truth is salaries come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re negotiating a starting salary or looking for a raise, you should know how much you’re really worth and understand how your organization determines the amount you are paid. Your colleague’s paycheque may be larger or smaller than yours, regardless of how long you have been working for the organization or how many bills you have.

According to the Global Health Council, more than 9.5 million people die every year from infectious diseases. Millions more die from secondary causes related to those diseases.

The International Centre for Infectious Diseases (ICID) in Winnipeg develops solutions that target infectious diseases by improving disease-prevention strategies; enhancing biosafety and biosecurity in labs, hospitals and communities; and commercializing innovative products for public health practice.

“If you take a look at an infectious disease such as HPV (human papillomavirus), that disease has been linked to cervical cancer and other cancers as well,” says John Borody, the non-profit organization’s CEO. “By tackling HPV, the occurrence of cancer can be reduced as well.”

By postponing their retirement plans, baby boomers have delayed the looming worker shortfall and temporarily alleviated the panic to find suitable replacements for older workers trading in their briefcases for golf bags.

According to labour force statistics from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, there has been a 35 per cent increase in the number of Canadians over the age of 55 in the last 10 years. At the same time, there has been a 25 per cent decrease in Canadians under the age of 45.